Dehradun, Dec 15
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday launched the mascot for the 38th National Games in Raipur, Dehradun.
An official said that two traditional sports, yoga and mallakhamb, will also become a part of the national game. In the grand mascot ceremony held on Sunday, Indian Olympic Association President Dr. PT Usha made this information public. The Chief Minister launched the mascot symbol Mauli, logo, jersey, anthem, and tagline of the 38th National Games. The tagline for the National Games has been declared as "From Sankalp to Shikhar."
In the program organized at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Raipur, Dehradun, the Chief Minister stated that today is a historic day in the sports history of Uttarakhand. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of the people of Uttarakhand for giving the opportunity to host the National Games. The Chief Minister mentioned that the beautiful logo of the National Games displays the diverse colors of Uttarakhand to the entire country. This anthem, along with displaying unity, inspires players to work harder.
The mascot of the National Games, Monal, symbolizes the uniqueness of the state and motivates young players to strive for big goals. The logo is inspired by Uttarakhand's state bird, Monal, which reflects the natural beauty and diversity of the region. The beautiful torch of the National Games has been lit, symbolizing unity and collective effort across the country and fostering a sports spirit and culture within society.
As the chief guest, the Chief Minister emphasized that resolutions should be unwavering. Only through determination can any goal be achieved. He stated that the state is fully prepared for the successful organization of the 38th National Games. For this event, the state government has allocated about Rs 500 crore for infrastructure facilities, leading to the construction of new sports grounds, reconstruction of stadiums and swimming pools, development of infrastructure for water sports, cycling tracks, and shooting ranges.
The Chief Minister also noted that small sports stadiums are being constructed in hilly areas, providing local players with opportunities to showcase their talent. He added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, innovative efforts have been made at every level to establish India as a sports superpower. A strong sports ecosystem has been developed through initiatives like Fit India and Khelo India Yojana.
The Chief Minister reiterated the re-implementation of a four percent reservation for players, doubling prize money for state athletes, and the construction of a sports university. He expressed hope that all players participating in the National Games would have a positive experience in Uttarakhand.
Union Minister of State for Sports Raksha Khadse acknowledged that players from across the country are performing well in international competitions and highlighted that players from Uttarakhand are bringing laurels to both the state and nation. He assured that the Central Government would provide full support to Uttarakhand in sports development and mentioned efforts to organize the Olympics in India.
A video message from Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya was also broadcast during the event. Indian Olympic Association President Dr. PT Usha congratulated Uttarakhand for hosting the National Games and praised Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami's leadership, expressing hope for further advancements in sports development in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand Sports Minister Smt. Rekha Arya noted that organizing the National Games in the silver jubilee year of Uttarakhand is very encouraging. The event was attended by Cabinet Minister Shri Satpal Maharaj, MLA Shri Umesh Sharma Kau, Smt. Sunaina Kumari, State Olympic Association President Shri Mahesh Negi, Special Principal Secretary Sports Amit Sinha, Secretary Shri Shailesh Bagoli, Sports Director Shri Prashant Arya, and many other dignitaries. The program was conducted by RJ Kavya.